Navy Day/ Día de las Glorias Navales

Navy Day, or ‘Día de las Glorias Navales’ in Spanish, occurs every May 21 and honors the day Chile fought a strategic battle against Peru. The Battle of Iquique, fought during the 19th century War of the Pacific, inspired countless young Chileans to fight for their country and eventually win the war against Bolivia and Peru. The national holiday is a day off for most people and a special celebration for the Chilean Navy, who honor their alums, Captain Arturo Prat and the crew of the Esmeralda, whose bravery and sacrifice sparked the flames of the Chilean revolution.